M. Chapoutier Ermitage Les Greffieux 2025

Les Greffieux is a 3.5-hectare walled clos at the foot of the Hermitage hill in the northern Rhône, replanted after the Second World War and now farmed by M. Chapoutier for this Ermitage. The site sits on the lower slope, where deeper soils over the hill's granite and clay give a fuller, rounder style of Syrah than the steeper plots above. Hermitage is one of the great Syrah terroirs, its south-facing aspect ripening the fruit fully while the cool northern climate keeps acidity and aromatic detail. The vines are farmed organically. The wine is aged fourteen months in barrel, where measured oxygen exchange firms the structure and adds savoury depth while the fruit stays in front. The colour is deep and dark. The nose is layered, with ripe red and black berries, plum, black pepper and liquorice over smoke, leather and an earthy minerality. The palate is full and structured, the fine, firm tannin and fresh acidity carrying the dark fruit to a long, peppery, savoury finish that will reward cellaring. Serve at 16 to 18C, decanted; it suits roast red meats, game and aged cheese.